Breast tenderness (mastalgia): definition and meaning
Breast tenderness, or mastalgia, is pain, soreness or heaviness in one or both breasts. The most common type is cyclical mastalgia, which follows the menstrual cycle: it builds in the luteal phase as progesterone and estrogen rise, peaks just before a period and eases once bleeding starts. Non-cyclical pain has other causes, such as a strain.
Cyclical vs non-cyclical breast pain
| Cyclical | Non-cyclical | |
|---|---|---|
| Timing | builds before periods, eases after | no link to the cycle |
| Where | both breasts, often upper outer areas and armpit | often one spot |
| Feels like | heavy, swollen, achy | burning, sharp or tight |
| Common causes | normal hormone changes | muscle strain, cysts, some medicines |
Why breasts hurt before your period
After ovulation, progesterone and estrogen make milk ducts and glands swell and hold fluid. That can make breasts feel full and sensitive. It is common in the luteal phase, in early pregnancy and during perimenopause, when hormones swing more.
What helps
- A well-fitted, supportive bra, including a soft one at night
- Over-the-counter pain relief such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen (paracetamol), as directed
- Warm or cool compresses
- Less caffeine, which some people find helps, though evidence is limited
More in breast tenderness and why breasts hurt before a period. See also breast changes in the cycle.
See a doctor if you find a new lump, nipple discharge (especially bloody), skin dimpling or a nipple turning inward, redness and heat, or pain in one spot that doesn't follow your cycle. Breast pain alone is rarely a sign of cancer, but changes deserve a check.
Frequently asked questions
How many days before a period does breast tenderness start?
Often 3 to 7 days before, sometimes from ovulation, about two weeks before.
Is breast tenderness a sign of pregnancy?
It can be an early sign, but it is just as common before a period. Only a test can tell.
Sources
This page is for information only and isn鈥檛 medical advice. If something worries you, please talk to a doctor.
Keep reading
Breast tenderness before your period: why it happens and what helpsSore, heavy or swollen breasts before your period? Why breast tenderness before a period happens, what eases it, and which breast changes need a doctor.Why do my breasts hurt before my period?Why do my breasts hurt before my period? Rising progesterone and estrogen make breast tissue swell. What's normal, what helps, and when to get it checked.Breast changes in the cycle: what they meanWhy breasts swell, ache or feel lumpy before a period. The hormones behind cyclical breast changes, what's normal, and what needs a doctor's check.
What is premenstrual syndrome (PMS)?PMS (premenstrual syndrome) is a group of physical and emotional symptoms in the days before a period that ease once it starts. Causes, symptoms and help.
Luteal phase: definition and meaningThe luteal phase is the part of your cycle from ovulation to your next period, usually 12 to 14 days. Hormones, mood, PMS and why it matters.